Spanning a whopping 730 square miles, Lake Okeechobee in Florida is bigger than any other freshwater lake in the state and even ranks third largest in the nation (out of all the lakes wholly in the country). The 35-mile-long lake is actually a leftover body of water from the prehistoric Pamlico Sea, which once covered much of Florida, and its name comes from the Hitchiti word for "big water” — quite fitting!

Despite its vastness, Lake Okeechobee is surprisingly shallow and averages only 10-12 feet deep across its wide footprint. This makes it a haven for wading birds and aquatic plants that make their homes in the marshes and wetlands all around the lake’s shallow, sunlit shores. 

Lake Okeechobee plays a crucial role in the health of the larger Everglades ecosystem over South Florida, as it supplies freshwater to the vast wetland system and serves as a habitat for countless fish, birds and other wildlife who have called South Florida home for countless generations. 

Like many fragile wetland ecosystems, Lake Okeechobee faces challenges such as water pollution, invasive species and altered water flow patterns — thanks to a combination of both climate- and human-induced effects. Thankfully, though, efforts are underway to restore the lake's health and ensure its continued role as a vital part of Florida's natural and recreational environment.

Speaking of recreation, let’s dive into some of the cool things that you can see and do around this massive slice of Florida’s fresh water!

Activities around Lake Okeechobee

Fishing

The undisputed king of Okeechobee is the largemouth bass. Renowned for its fighting spirit and size (as in, fish weighing over 10 pounds!), bass fishing here is a thrill for anglers at any level of experience. Black crappie, also called "specks," are another Okeechobee favorite that offer plenty of fun, especially during spring spawning season in February through April. Bluegill, redear sunfish and other panfish provide an abundance of action for light-tackle enthusiasts. 

In addition to these big three fishes, diverse species like catfish, pickerel and bowfin add extra challenges to Okeechobee's fishing scene. Catfish stalk deeper waters, while pickerel lurk in the dense reeds along the shoreline. Bowfin, a weird, prehistoric-looking fish, are certainly a more unique fish to catch.

With over 40 species of fish recorded on the lake, there’s really so much to go for and nothing holding you back (other than a fishing license, of course). 

Birdwatching

Whether you're a seasoned birder or a curious beginner, Lake Okeechobee offers endless opportunities for avian encounters. With its diverse habitats housing dozens of species over the course of the seasons, it's a real birding paradise waiting to be explored throughout the year!

Along the shoreline, keep an eye out for great egrets, belted kingfishers and ospreys stalking the shallow waters for small fish and prey. You’ll also get to experience the many small marsh birds like white ibises, Kirtland’s warblers and limpkins as they hide among the tall reeds, looking for bugs, snails and other creepy crawlies. Plus, keep your eyes peeled for the bald eagles and other large birds of prey as they hunt for rodents, fish and small animals.

During migration season, Lake Okeechobee turns into a migration hotspot as thousands of birds land here to rest and recuperate in the midst of their long journeys. During these peak seasons you’ll get to watch the ecosystem come alive with flocks upon flocks of geese, hummingbirds, ducks and more!

Boating and kayaking

Lake Okeechobee's freshwaters hum with more than just wildlife — the lake’s vast expanse is also a hotspot for boaters of all kinds!

Outdoor recreationalists enjoy a variety of watery sports on the lake, and you’ll see pontoon boats, bass boats, jet skis, speedboats and airboats. There’s more than enough space for kayakers and paddle-boarders, too.

Camping

There’s plenty to do in the way of camping around Lake Okeechobee, if that’s what you’re looking for!

From campgrounds like the Okeechobee KOA, Lake Breeze RV Park and the Water’s Edge Motorcoach & RV Resort to Pahokee Campground and the DuPuis Management Area, you’re certain to find a tent or camper site that suits all your camping needs!

So, if you’re ever looking for a quiet getaway to a watery paradise that’s not the ocean, then be sure to add Lake Okeechobee to your list of South Florida must-do’s. It’s just 190 minutes away from our luxury South Florida apartments and a world away from the hustle and bustle of the sprawling Miami metropolis. 

Enjoy!

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Featured photo courtesy Pixabay/ernie114